Tahoma (Mt Rainier) Emmons Glacier

When

Friday June 12 to Sunday June 14

A two-day alpine climb of the Emmons Glacier, with camping nearby the night before.

Where

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Route: Emmons Glacier (Northeast side). Approach via the White River Campground, progressing through Glacier Basin to Camp Schurman before the summit push.

What

A glaciated alpine mountaineering climb of Mount Rainier (14,411 ft) via the Emmons Glacier Route—the mountain’s longest and one of its classic summit routes.

• Snow and glacier travel
• Rope team movement and crevasse navigation
• Early-morning summit attempt from Camp Schurman

This is a physically demanding objective requiring endurance, glacier travel skills, and comfort with alpine exposure and variable weather.

Who

Very good level of fitness is required (see trip data). Comfort with personal equipment on multi day trip is also a must before attempting this trip. We will be roping up and traversing glaciers. Experience traveling in rope team and crevasse rescue techniques is required. Cold and high-altitude environment experience is also appreciated.

This climb is currently full. If you would like to join the waitlist, please send me your climbing resume to nicolejbecker1@gmail.com.

Day-by-Day Logistics

Day 1 – Drive up near the park Friday afternoon

Drive up and camp at La Wis Wis Campground (spaces reserved).

Day 2 – Approach to Camp Schurman

Travel from White River Campground to Camp Schurman via Glacier Basin and the Inter Glacier.

• Mileage: ~6–7 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~5,000 ft
• Camp: Camp Schurman (~9,500 ft)

Day 3 – Summit Attempt

Early alpine start from Camp Schurman, ascending the Emmons Glacier to the summit of

Mount Rainier, followed by descent back to Camp Schurman.

• Mileage: ~7–8 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~5,000 ft
• High Point: Mount Rainier Summit (14,411 ft)
• Camp: Camp Schurman (second night)

Pack up camp and descend from Camp Schurman back to the White River Campground.

• Mileage: ~6–7 miles
• Elevation Loss: ~5,000 ft